Canada (7) v (7)* Namibia

By Andrea Fox

Namibia defeated Canada today in a tug-of-war game which tied at 7-7 and went to a penalty shootout.

The large crowd at Federation Square were treated to a fantastic match, with both teams equal in skill and determination.

Canada got off to a blistering start, with Pagonis converting from a long range bomb off the first possession of the match.

Team mates Bell and Senko followed suit with straight strikes at goal sending Canada to an early 3-0 lead.

Enter Namibia, scoring three goals in a row, including a huge mid-field strike, to level the scores.

Namibia went into half time with a narrow lead after a goal from the top of the goal circle by Kasibu.

The second half was just as thrilling, with Namibia taking the early lead thanks to a skilful shot from Skrywer.

5- 3 to Namibia looked like a handy break, until Canada's Pagonis scored again and a penalty against goalkeeper Swarbooti was easily slotted by Bell.

With only two minutes to go, Kasibu scored quickly for Namibia but a second penalty against Swarbooti gave Bell the opportunity to level the scores.

The goal of the match came from Canada's Senko who took a 180 degree turn from the top of the circle to shoot and score.

With only three seconds left, Namibia's Kasibu again scored quickly to even the scores at 7-7 all leading to a thrilling penalty shootout.

Australian reserve keeper Normy did his best, but Namibia's Kasibu sent the ball into the right corner.

Canadian Senko’s answering penalty went wide, hitting the right side board, giving the win to Namibia.

Photos: Photoworx